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How to Free Up Device Storage by Making OneDrive Files Online-Only
Question details
The user needs to free up local device storage because synchronized OneDrive files are taking up physical disk space despite having ample cloud storage available.
- Product
- Microsoft OneDrive
- Device & OS
- Windows
- Scenario
- Managing local disk space to prevent the hard drive from filling up while keeping files accessible via cloud storage.
- Observed behavior
- Synchronized OneDrive files marked with green check marks are stored locally, actively consuming physical hard drive space on a device that is nearly full.
Ensure your computer is connected to the internet and that your OneDrive client is running and fully synchronized to prevent any unexpected data loss.
Use the Free Up Space Feature in File Explorer
This is the standard method to remove local copies of your files while keeping them safely stored in your OneDrive cloud.
Windows 10 and 11 include a feature called OneDrive Files On-Demand. This allows you to view all your cloud files in File Explorer without having to download them all to your local hard drive.
Press the Windows key + E to open File Explorer, then navigate to your OneDrive folder from the left-hand navigation pane.
Locate the files or folders with a green check mark icon, which indicates they are currently taking up space on your local drive. Highlight the ones you no longer need stored locally.
Right-click the selected files or folders and click 'Free up space' from the context menu. The green check mark will change to a blue cloud icon, indicating the file is now online-only.
Manage and Edit Cloud Documents Seamlessly with WPS Office
If you frequently work with cloud storage to save local disk space, consider using WPS Office. It provides a lightweight, highly compatible alternative to Microsoft Office that easily connects to your cloud drives, ensuring your workflow remains smooth without consuming excessive system resources.
- 1. Download WPS Office: Install the lightweight WPS Office suite on your device to save local storage space.
- 2. Connect Your Cloud: Open WPS Office, navigate to the Cloud section, and log in to your preferred cloud storage service.
- 3. Edit Online Files: Open and edit your cloud documents directly through WPS Office without cluttering your physical hard drive.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does the green check mark mean on my OneDrive files?
A solid green check mark means the file is set to 'Always keep on this device' and takes up local disk space permanently. A hollow green check mark means it was downloaded temporarily and is also taking up space.
Will selecting 'Free up space' delete my files from OneDrive?
No. Using 'Free up space' only removes the local copy from your physical hard drive. Your files remain completely safe and accessible in your online OneDrive cloud storage.
How do I open an online-only file later?
Simply double-click the online-only file (which will have a blue cloud icon) in File Explorer. As long as your device is connected to the internet, Windows will download and open it automatically.
Can I automate the process of making unused files online-only?
Yes. If you use Windows 10 or 11, you can enable Storage Sense in your system settings to automatically change synced OneDrive files to online-only if they haven't been opened for a specified number of days.
